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Destination
Discover Mindelo
A port city that lives on music, conversation and the sea — and that you can mostly explore on foot.
Laginha Beach
It is Mindelo’s urban beach, next to the centre, and many locals’ preferred place for a swim. Booking.com lists about a 13-minute walk from the house.
It is worth going early, while the city is still waking up — a habit that, as the story goes, was also Tia Hortência’s.
The historic centre
Mindelo’s centre is gathered around Rua de Lisboa, a pedestrian shopping street, and Praça Nova. Nearby are the Palácio do Povo, a 19th-century neoclassical building, and, by the bay, a replica of the Belém Tower. The Centro Cultural do Mindelo and the municipal market complete a walk that is easy to do on foot.
Music and cultural life
Mindelo is often described as Cape Verde’s cultural capital. Cesária Évora was born here, and morna and coladeira can be heard in the city’s bars and restaurants in the evening — the best approach is to ask at the house where there is live music that night.
Mindelo’s Carnival, in February or March depending on the year, is one of the best-known events in the archipelago, and the Baía das Gatas festival is traditionally held in August, around the full moon. Dates change every year: confirm them before planning your trip, and book early.
Cafés, restaurants and local shops
Around the house and along Rua de Lisboa there are bakeries, cafés, restaurants and street shops. The municipal market is the place to see the island’s everyday produce. Instead of a list that ages quickly, our suggestion is simple: ask us — we will tell you what is open and what is worth it.
Excursions from São Vicente
- Monte Verde, the island’s highest point, with views over Mindelo and the bay.
- Calhau and São Pedro, on the coast, for beaches and open air away from the city.
- Baía das Gatas, to the east, known for its music festival.
- Santo Antão, the neighbouring island, reachable by ferry from Porto Grande, with a crossing of around one hour. Check schedules and conditions with the operators.